Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Business
Private Investigator Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for private investigator in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Private Investigator in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Licensure for Private Investigators
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,130 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of 48,130, Private Investigators in Kentucky earn 8% below the national median of $52,370. Kentucky ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$48,130Hourly estimate
$23.148% below national median
Difference: -$4,240
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPrivate Investigator Salary Ranking
#31 of 50 statesfor Private Investigator median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Oregon | 77,320 |
| #2 | Maryland | 74,360 |
| #3 | Illinois | 73,070 |
| #4 | Minnesota | 72,070 |
| #5 | Connecticut | 68,290 |
Nearby States Comparison
Private Investigator licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $48,130 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $45,400 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $50,060 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $46,830 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $48,740 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $46,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $43,780 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $73,070 | Varies by state board | State exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Professional Licensing • Board of Licensure for Private Investigators
500 Mero Street, 2 SC 32, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5028924257
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $93,230 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $100,200 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $79,100 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Private Investigator in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Private Investigators in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Private Investigators.
What education do you need to become a Private Investigator in Kentucky?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Private Investigator licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Private Investigator salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Private Investigators in Kentucky is 48,130. Salaries range from $38,500 (10th percentile) to $71,260 (90th percentile).
How does the Private Investigator salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Private Investigators in Kentucky earn 8% below the national median of $52,370, with a state median of 48,130.
How many Private Investigators work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 490 Private Investigators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Private Investigator license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Private Investigators in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional Licensing / Board of Licensure for Private Investigators. Review agency details at http://kpi.ky.gov/.